Last month, I embarked on a remarkable journey by driving the 2025 Rivian R1S to Las Vegas. This experience has led me to delve deep into the world of EV fast-charging costs, which can often be quite astonishing. In this article, I'll share my insights and comparisons, shedding light on the realities of electric vehicle travel.

Uncovering the True Costs of EV Fast-Charging

Section 1: The Rivian R1S and Its Range

The 2025 Rivian R1S Dual Max, with its dual motors and max range, boasts an EPA-rated range of 410 miles. However, during my trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, I quickly realized that highway driving takes a toll on its efficiency. The vehicle's guess-o-meter indicated a range of about 400 miles, but considering the conditions and my driving speed of 80 MPH, I suspected it wouldn't make it to Las Vegas without a close call. And indeed, it just managed to get me there with some drama. The headlights, which danced ahead to enhance visibility, were a remarkable feature.Even though Las Vegas was only about 300 miles away, the Rivian's range estimate wasn't entirely accurate. The EPA's highway efficiency figures, which showed 2.28 mi/kWh, were frequently considered optimistic. This highlighted the challenges of relying solely on an electric vehicle for long-distance travel.

Section 2: Charging Experiences in Las Vegas

At Treasure Island, a giant casino, I was disappointed to find that the chargers still didn't work. This was a major setback, as I had to drive to Caesar's Palace to find Autel chargers. Getting the app to work was a hassle, as my old account got stuck. But once it was sorted, I faced the cost of charging.The price at the public charger was 38 cents per kWh, and the Rivian's 141.5 kWh battery needed 154.33 kWh to be topped up due to charging losses. This cost me about $59. In contrast, at an average gas price of $3.73 per gallon last month, that $59 would have bought about 15.8 gallons of fuel. To go 300 miles on 15.8 gallons of fuel requires a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of only 19 MPG.

Section 3: Comparing with Gas-Guzzlers

Looking at some gas-guzzlers that could have taken me to Las Vegas, I was amazed at how they could have been more cost-effective. These larger machines, which were about 10 inches longer than the Rivian, would have cost less or about the same to get to Vegas. It's a reminder that while the Rivian excels in acceleration and handling, it comes with a higher price tag when it comes to charging on the go.Even when I returned to LA and filled up at an EVgo station, the cost was 66 cents per kWh. I didn't even fill the vehicle up completely and still paid $81.22. In comparison, with gas averaging $4.87 per gallon in my area, I could have gotten over 16 gallons for $81. With a 19 MPG vehicle, I could have covered about 3/4 of the Rivian's range for the same amount.

Section 4: The Benefits of Home Charging

I myself charge my small and efficient EV at home and save a significant amount compared to a gas car, especially with city driving. This highlights the importance of having access to home charging. If you can't charge at home and are at the mercy of public charging stations, you may end up paying more for your EV, especially in highway conditions.EVs offer advantages in terms of maintenance costs, with just the need for tires and some fluids. There are also various incentives available. But it's crucial to consider the costs of public charging when planning a road trip.In conclusion, driving an EV can be a great choice, but it's important to be aware of the costs associated with fast-charging, especially when traveling long distances. Home charging can make a big difference in saving money and ensuring a smooth journey.